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With Spring just around the corner, we’re busy thinking about two things: Spring Break and Summer vacation. For those of you lucky gals that are heading to Europe this season, Clare from Need Another Holiday shows you how to be continental chic when you plan what to wear in Europe on your summer vacation.
Summer Vacation in Europe
Written by: Clare Farrell
If you’re heading to Europe soon or are planning your dream future visit, you can’t go wrong if you plan around these two fabulous themes for your European holiday wardrobe. Whether you’re after sun and sand or capital cities and culture, here are my travel must haves when I plan what to wear in Europe:
Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:
- Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
- Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets
- Cute and Comfortable Walking Sandals
- 10 Step Packing List for Europe
Continental Chic meets Greek Goddess!
On this year’s short break to Venice, I yearned to swish about looking somewhat like an out-of-work 50’s movie star (I can dream), so I went about channelling my inner Audrey Hepburn. Then later in summer, I hit the Greek Island of Kos for some beach time relaxation and summer sightseeing, embracing my inner bronzed beauty.
Here’s my Europe packing list of go-to pieces for city and beach:
A fabulous scarf
It’s the ultimate accessory and wards off that Spring or Autumn chill, and if you take one that’s big enough, it will double up perfectly as a summer sarong.
Skinny jeans in a dark indigo blue
They go with EVERYTHING and the dark wash keeps them just on the smart side of casual, for when you need to dress up.
Here’s the best skinny jeans for travel!
A Breton stripe top
In an easy to wear jersey, this is the ultimate item for instant Parisian chic.
Clarks Azella Theoni Slip-On Loafer
Flat shoes
Choose wisely and these will be just as comfy as walking around in your slippers. I have a thing for ballet flats; they’re perfect and have just enough understated glamour for a cosy restaurant dinner. Go for classic monochrome, or just pick a neutral hue like nude or pewter.
Find out how and why to choose the best walking shoes for Europe!
Maxi dresses
A couple of these and you’re good to go. Think bold and bright; ethereal and floaty. In the right material, they roll up to almost nothing. And with a bit of gathering or a clever cut, they’ll hide any evidence of the extra tasty treats and cocktails you’ve been consuming (hey, you’re on holiday, it’s wrong not to overindulge).
We’ve got a round up of twenty beautiful summer maxi dresses!
Aerosoles Conchlusion Gladiator Sandal
Gladiator sandals
Flat, practical and oh so cool, these just go with everything. Despite being a heels girl, I have come to the conclusion that they’re just too much effort on holiday, not to mention the unnecessary space they take up in your luggage. Still, I know you need something dressy, which leads me on to…
Aerosoles Chlearwater Flat Sandal
Sparkly, strappy flat sandals
The more bling, the better. And maxi dresses can look so much more effortless in the evening with flats rather than heels anyway (not to mention that there’s much less chance of you falling over after one too many holiday cocktails).
Find out the best sandals for travel this summer!
Linen, linen and more linen
I can’t emphasize the magical importance linen for summer holidays. Being the pale and interesting English Rose that I am, I can’t afford to flash the flesh too much in case I catch fire (I’m not chancing it). Linen is perfect in any form, but a shirt and trousers are my absolute must for sightseeing in the midday sun. Plus the shirt is a great beach or pool cover up, when you slink off for lunch.
And my all year round winner for city and beach?
Stock up on this vacation staple with this season’s ten best linen clothing!
Tailor Underwired Tummy Control Swimsuit
A one-piece swimsuit
I like my bikinis, but there’s something quite alluring (and flattering) about a one-piece. Especially when it’s halter-neck, polka-dot and just a little bit retro. It works perfectly on the beach in summer, and it works at the hotel indoor pool, all year round.
And that’s it! Now all that’s left is for you to do is pack your bag, put your shades on and take Europe by storm!
Take a look on our best one piece swimsuits this summer!
What are your tips on what to wear in Europe in summer? Share in the comment section below!
For more Europe packing tips, please read:
- 10-Step Packing Guide for Europe
- Backpacking Europe in Summer
- How to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe in Summer
- The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Summer
Suggested travel resources:
- Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
- How to Choose the Best Shoes for Europe
- The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
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Love this list! The Breton top is essential:)
Amazing!! Thank you. These lists are incredible! Really appreciate these well curated lists!
for wearing with skirts, I recommend pettipants. My favorites are made by Underworks and available on Amazon.
I haven’t bought linen in 20 yrs. it looks very chic but as I remember it requires a lot of ironing.
Linen can wrinkle easily but can be great for warmer climates 🙂
Agree about the maxi dresses. A long boho skirt is also a good idea; great with a tee for day if you’re touring cathedrals, mosques, or ancient monasteries where there’s a code for modesty. At night at dinner, pair it with a sexy top. With a maxi dress, you can drape the big scarf or pashmina over your shoulders and head if needed.
Hi! i love this blog! what about writing an article for trendy girls that move to Europe? what to wear for winter? in my case i live in southamerica so its huuugeeee change! i’d like to hear tips from you!
Thanks Gaby! I’m publishing all Europe posts the entire month of May so stay tuned and check out this link: https://travelfashiongirl.com/category/destination-packing-lists
I love my black leggings & sheer tunic top for an evening out! just enough stretch to indulge at dinner! 🙂
Haha stylishly comfortable! 😉
This post came just at the right time. I’m heading to France in July and my retro spotted bathers will defiantly make it into my bag. Good tip about using the scarf as a sarong too.
As for shoes I’ll be packing wedges. I can’t help myself!
Sounds like a great time to go to France! Glad you like the tips 🙂 Have a great time!